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Life in Khagrachhari began returning to normal on Wednesday after a four-day disruption, following the suspension of a road blockade until October 5.
Although long-distance transport services have not fully resumed, a few vehicles left the district on Wednesday morning. Passenger numbers increased at bus counters, and limited traffic was seen in the town and surrounding areas.
Business establishments, including shops, also reopened after being closed for four days, UNB reports.
The indefinite blockade had been enforced by a group called ‘Jumma Chhatra-Janata’ in protest against the alleged rape of a schoolgirl.
On Tuesday night, the group announced on its Facebook page that the blockade would be suspended in respect of Durga Puja and following assurances from the administration to meet their eight-point demand.
However, Section 144 remains in effect in the district.
Despite the suspension, tension persists among locals as additional security measures continue in Khagrachhari and Guimara, with army patrols and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and police presence.
A five-member panel has been formed to investigate the recent incidents.
Civil Surgeon Dr Mohammad Shaber said he could not confirm social media claims that medical tests found no evidence of rape, noting that the report would be submitted to the court through the police.
During clashes on September 27 and 28, at least three people were killed and many others injured. Several shops, homes, and offices in Guimara, including Ramsu Bazar, were set on fire.
Officer-in-charge of Khagrachhari Sadar Police Station Abdul Baten Mridha said that normalcy is gradually being restored, with vehicles running and no fresh incidents reported.